Course Description: This course introduces the student to the thought of St. Thomas Aquinas, with emphasis on its Aristotelian philosophical principles. The course first places the thought of Aquinas within the context of philosophical inquiry, discussing the relationship between philosophy and theology, and between modern and classical views of philosophy. Then the challenges that Thomas faced with the introduction of Aristotle's works in the Christian West are addressed. The student is subsequently guided through such key concepts as art, nature, causes, and motion and is shown how Thomas used these concepts to resolve the problems presented by Aristotle.

Prerequisites: No previous background in philososphy or theology is required.